At GW Glass, we believe your home should be your sanctuary—a place where you and your family feel completely safe and secure. Windows, while essential for light and ventilation, can unfortunately be vulnerable points in your home’s security if not carefully considered. With over 15 years of experience installing and upgrading windows across Essex, Hertfordshire, and London, we’ve gathered considerable knowledge about keeping homes secure. Here’s our comprehensive guide to window security for homeowners.
Understanding the Vulnerabilities
Statistics from police reports show that approximately 30% of burglars enter homes through windows. This typically happens when windows are left unlocked, have outdated locking mechanisms, or feature single glazing that can be easily broken. Understanding these vulnerabilities is the first step in addressing them effectively.
Most break-ins are opportunistic rather than planned, with intruders looking for the easiest point of entry. This means that even simple security upgrades can significantly reduce your risk and potentially prevent your home from being targeted.
Essential Window Security Features
Multi-Point Locking Systems
Modern windows should feature multi-point locking systems that secure the window at various points around the frame when closed, not just at a single latch point. These systems make it extremely difficult to force a window open, providing peace of mind even when you’re away from home.
Toughened or Laminated Glass
Standard glass can be broken relatively easily, but toughened glass is approximately five times stronger. Laminated glass, which consists of two panes bonded together with a plastic interlayer, is even more secure. If broken, the glass stays attached to the plastic layer rather than shattering completely, continuing to act as a barrier and making a quick break-in much more challenging.
Window Restrictors
Window restrictors allow windows to be partially opened for ventilation while preventing them from being opened fully from the outside. They’re particularly valuable for ground floor windows and children’s bedrooms, offering both security and safety benefits.
Upgrading Older Windows
If you have older windows with outdated security features, you don’t necessarily need to replace them entirely. Depending on their condition, we can often retrofit additional security measures:
- Installing modern locks on timber windows
- Adding secondary glazing to enhance both security and thermal efficiency
- Fitting safety film to existing glass to create a laminated-glass effect
- Installing window bars or grilles (particularly suitable for basement windows)
However, if your windows are showing signs of deterioration in the frames or mechanisms, a full replacement with modern, secure units is often the most cost-effective long-term solution.
The Security Benefits of Double Glazing
Beyond the well-known energy efficiency advantages, double glazing significantly enhances security. The two panes of glass with a gap between them are inherently more difficult to break through than single glazing. When combined with toughened or laminated glass and multi-point locking systems, modern double-glazed units provide formidable security.
Many of our customers who upgrade from older single-glazed windows report feeling noticeably more secure in their homes, particularly at night or when they’re away.
Balancing Security with Aesthetics
Security doesn’t mean compromising on the appearance of your home. Modern security windows come in a wide range of styles suitable for any property, from contemporary urban flats to period cottages. For heritage properties, we specialise in creating secure windows that maintain period features and character, including George’s traditional putty work techniques that preserve authentic aesthetics while incorporating modern security features.
Additional Security Measures
While secure windows are essential, a comprehensive approach to home security includes:
- Security lighting around the property
- Visible alarm systems (even dummy boxes can be effective deterrents)
- Window locks that are kept secured when windows are closed
- Avoiding leaving windows open when the house is unoccupied
- Keeping valuable items out of sight from windows
The GW Glass Approach to Security
When we assess a property for window installation or replacements, security is always a primary consideration alongside energy efficiency and aesthetics. We take time to understand your specific concerns and recommend solutions that provide the right level of security for your circumstances.
As a family business, we understand that protecting your home means protecting what matters most to you. We never use high-pressure sales tactics to upsell unnecessary security features, but we do ensure you’re fully informed about the options available.
Take the Next Step to a More Secure Home
If you’re concerned about the security of your current windows, we offer a free, no-obligation assessment. Our experienced team can advise on the most cost-effective ways to enhance your home’s security, whether that’s upgrading locks and handles or installing completely new windows.
For a friendly chat about your window security, call us on 01279 744337 or email george@gwglass.co.uk. Remember—good security gives you more than just protection; it provides peace of mind.
